Parents, take control

To the Editor:

I am a child of the 1950s. Most of my friends also are baby boomers. We played in the street or the alley for fun. We all ate dinner with our mom and dad at a certain time every night. Our friends had to go home at the same time because their parents made sure they were home with the family. If you did not, your friends’ mom or dad would tattle on you, and you got a nice little spanking. That is old-style parental control.

What happened to mom and dad that kids are now out of control? The boomers may have had sex, drugs and rock ’n’ roll, but all of the boomers’ kids that I know are leading well-rounded, productive lives. Please don’t blame the fact that both parents have to work. I’ve been there. Do not blame the economy. Been there.

Mom and dad, get out with your kids. Talk to them. Listen to them. Give them a direction. Smokie the Bear said, “Only you can prevent forest fires.” Only mom and dad can prevent a problem child. Take control by loving and talking to your children. Let them play and know that you love them.